What Can You Take On American Airlines

So, you’ve booked a seat on American Airlines. Congratulations, you have officially entered a world where legroom is a myth and the pretzels are a dare. But before you shove everything you own into a suitcase, let’s talk about the real rules of the road. After all, nobody wants to be that person at the gate, frantically repacking their carry-on while a bored agent watches.

Let’s start with the elephant in the cabin: your carry-on bag. American is actually pretty chill about this—they allow one carry-on and one personal item. But here’s the twist: your personal item can’t be the size of a small fridge. It must fit under the seat in front of you, which means your emotional support backpack full of snacks? Measure it first.

Now, what can you actually put in that bag? The TSA has a list longer than a Shakespeare play, but let’s hit the highlights. Liquids must be in containers of 3.4 ounces or less. That fancy craft hot sauce you bought in Portland? Nope. Unless you enjoy explaining to a security agent why your salsa is a “gel.”

The Fridge Raid: Food and Snacks

You can bring your own food. Yes, finally, a rule that doesn’t ruin your day. Pack a sandwich, a bag of chips, even that questionable gas station sushi—American won’t stop you. Pro tip: Bring something that doesn’t smell like a garbage truck. Your neighbor in 23C will thank you.

But here’s a surprising fact: you can bring a whole pie. Not kidding. A full, uncut, Thanksgiving-level pie is totally allowed. So if you want to smuggle a blueberry pie through security like a dessert-loving spy, go for it. Just don’t blame me when the pilot asks for a slice.

Beverages are trickier. You can bring a liquid through security, but only if it’s 3.4 ounces or less. So that gallon of kombucha? Hard pass. However, once you’re past security, you can buy a soda and carry it on board. Just don’t get the gigantic bottle—it’s a pain for your tray table and hydration ego.

Carry-On Luggage Size Chart And Allowances [2025]

Weird Things You Can (and Can’t) Bring

Let’s get weird. Can you bring a live lobster on American Airlines? Yes, believe it or not, if it’s in a proper container and doesn’t smell. I’m not saying you should bring a clawed creature on your flight to Chicago, but I’m also not saying you shouldn’t. Freedom.

What about a human skull? Surprisingly, yes—if it’s clean and for medical or educational purposes. So if you’re a doctor transporting a skeleton for a patient, feel free. But if you’re just trying to carry your ex-boyfriend’s skull as a keepsake… you might get a few side-eyes from the flight attendants.

Musical instruments? Fine, as long as they fit in the overhead bin. But here’s a joke for you: a tuba and a French horn walk into a security line. The agent says, “Gentlemen, you’re going to need a second ticket.” Ba-dum-tss. Seriously though, large instruments need their own seat. Book ahead.

The Real Surprises: Electronics and Gadgets

You can bring a massive power bank—but only if it’s under 100 watt-hours. Anything bigger needs airline approval. Translation: if your charger looks like a car battery, leave it at home. Most laptops, tablets, and phones are A-OK. Just prepare to slide your laptop out of its sleeve at security like you’re performing a magic trick.

Take on luggage size new arrivals

Here’s a shocking rule: you cannot bring a hoverboard. I know, I know—you wanted to zoom down the aisle to the bathroom. But American says no. The lithium batteries are deemed “fire risks.” So your dreams of airborne skateboarding will have to wait.

Medication: The Chill Zone

Pills are a breeze. You can bring any prescription medication, even in non-pill form. Just keep it in its original bottle, and you’re golden. Insulin, EpiPens, and nitroglycerin? All fine, just tell the TSA agent you’ve got a medical situation. They don’t want to be the person who stops your heart from doing its job.

But here’s a funny loophole: ice packs for medication are allowed, but they must be frozen solid when you go through security. So if your ice pack is a half-melted puddle, you’re the person holding up the line with a cold, wet bag. Plan ahead.

Airlines carry on size foto - Nadacomoviajar.com

And please, for the love of all that is holy, do not bring a marijuana edible through security. Even in states where it’s legal, the TSA follows federal law. That brownie might taste like a hug, but it will land you a meeting with airport security and a very sad snack time.

The Final Word: When All Else Fails, Blame the Chart

American Airlines has a full list online—and it’s actually fun to read. Ever wonder if you can bring a chainsaw? Yes, but only if the chain is removed and the fuel tank is empty. That’s the kind of specific chaos I live for.

So the takeaway? Pack smart, pack funny, and don’t bring a live alligator in a duffel bag. (Yes, that’s a rule too. No live animals except service animals or pets in carriers.) If you follow these tips, you’ll breeze through security like a pro. Bonus points if you wave at the agent with a perfectly sealed bag of baby wipes.

Now go forth and travel. And if you see someone with a pie, a lobster, and a chainsaw-free piece of luggage? Take a picture. That’s the American Airlines way.